Inkipedia
Kercher Baths Inkwell
| Categories | Advertising |
| Material | Pot metal |
| Markings | See narrative |
| Manufacturer | Undetermined |
| Origin | United States |
| Date or Era | circa 1916 |
| Measuring | 4” x 2” x 2 ¾” high |
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, bathhouses were commonly found in large cities. Between 1893 and 1918, the Chicago Department of Health built 21 public bathhouses to encourage hygiene at a time when many homes lacked proper facilities. Private bathhouses were also common, much like today’s health spas.
The Kercher Baths located at 505 South Wabash Avenue in Chicago catered to upper society circles and was Chicago’s oldest according to an article in the Chicago Examiner newspaper dated February 16, 1914. There was a separate entrance for ladies.
This rare advertising inkwell features a woman sitting in a footed bathtub and is embossed “Kercher Baths, Congress & Wabash, Chicago”.
A copy of the Chicago Examiner’s article is included with the inkwell pictures. For information about the history of public bathhouses, Forgotten Chicago published an interesting article: Public Bath Houses | Forgotten Chicago | History, Architecture, and Infrastructure
It is difficult to set a value for this inkwell. One example sold for $39 in June 2011. Another for $58.75 in April 2019. In a specialty advertising auction, this inkwell sold for $412.50: Kercher Baths Inkwell • Antique Advertising
Sold for $100 in November 2024
Content disclaimer. The information posted is the owner’s best knowledge and may not have been vetted by the SOIC. We welcome comments, corrections, and additions, working to make our website information comprehensive and accurate.
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